subvert

[ suhb-vurt ]

verb (used with object)

1. to overthrow (something established or existing).

   Synonyms: sabotage, overturn, undermine, disrupt, upset

2. to cause the downfall, ruin, or destruction of.
3. to undermine the principles of; corrupt.

subvert

/ səbˈvɜːt /

verb

1. to bring about the complete downfall or ruin of (something existing or established by a system of law, etc)
2. to undermine the moral principles of (a person, etc); corrupt

Derived Forms

• subˈverter, noun

Other Words From

• sub·verter noun
• unsub·verted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of subvert¹

1325–75; Middle English subverten < Latin subvertere to overthrow, equivalent to sub- sub- + vertere to turn

Word History and Origins

Origin of subvert¹

C14: from Latin subvertere to overturn, from sub- from below + vertere to turn

Example Sentences

There are, of course, other brakes on the tendency of one-party rule to subvert the system of separation of powers and checks and balances.

From Salon

Special Counsel Jack Smith appears to be giving up on a prosecution against President-elect Donald Trump over his alleged role in a plot to subvert the results of the 2020 election.

From Salon

He tried to subvert an election and remains a threat to democracy.

From Salon

Because, yes, it does come down to the people and, despite the overt attempts by Donald Trump to subvert that, our will has held.

From Los Angeles Times

This focus on shared credit subverts the typical American lionization of individual success.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• corrupt
• debase
• overthrow
• overturn
• pervert
• poison
• sabotage
• supersede
• suppress
• topple
• undermine
• vitiate